Are you craving a luxurious yet comforting meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Campbell's Lobster Bisque recipe is your answer. Forget expensive restaurant prices; we're bringing the taste of the seaside to your dinner table with a surprisingly easy and delicious homemade version. This recipe uses Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup as a base, adding depth and richness while significantly simplifying the process. It's a perfect blend of easy recipes and healthy meals, ideal for a quick dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the celery and onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your bisque.
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Build the soup base: Stir in the Campbell's cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. The cream of mushroom soup provides a luscious creaminess that's essential for a great lobster bisque.
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Add the lobster and seasonings: Gently stir in the chopped cooked lobster meat, cayenne pepper (if using), and sherry (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the Campbell's Lobster Bisque into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious soup is best enjoyed hot, but it also tastes wonderful served slightly chilled as well.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lobster Bisque:
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Quality lobster: Using high-quality lobster meat will significantly impact the final flavor. Fresh lobster is ideal, but frozen works perfectly well too. Just ensure it's thoroughly thawed before adding it to the soup.
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Don't overcook: Overcooking the lobster will make it tough. Add it towards the end of the cooking process to ensure it remains tender and flavorful.
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Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you prefer a milder bisque, omit it entirely.
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Garnish creatively: Experiment with different garnishes! A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika can add visual appeal and extra flavor.
Variations:
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Creamier Bisque: For an even creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
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Seafood Bisque: Substitute the lobster meat with other seafood like shrimp, scallops, or a combination.
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Vegetarian Bisque: Omit the lobster and add other vegetables like diced carrots, potatoes, or corn for a hearty vegetarian version. Consider adding a vegetable broth for additional flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy lobster bisque recipe offers a delightful balance of delicious dishes and healthy meals, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this taste of luxury from the comfort of your own home!